Smith headed to University of San Diego

The state high school single-season reception leader will catch balls in San Diego next fall.
Vista del Lago senior Logan Smith will play for the University of San Diego, accepting their offer to attend school and play football. Smith decided on San Diego on Jan. 29 after visiting the school that weekend.
“They told me they wanted me to come down and check out the school and having done that, I knew it was the right place for me,” Smith said. “I had three things on my mind. If I wasn’t playing football, would I enjoy going to school there and the answer was yes. Secondly, the education I will get there is great. Thirdly, the football program is phenomenal and it’s taking steps in the right direction. The whole thing is just a great deal for me. It’s the best school and the best fit for me.”
San Diego finished last season with a 9-2 record and have won four of the last seven Pioneer Football League championships. Smith also said this year’s recruiting class, which includes Folsom High’s offensive lineman Jordan Alleva, is top-notch.
Smith had a brilliant senior season at Vista, catching a state record 152 passes for 1,899 yards and 11 touchdowns. Despite those numbers, the 6-foot, 185-pounder didn’t receive a lot of interest from many colleges.
“I received some partial offers and places that I could go and walk-on, but I wasn’t really interested in them,” Smith said. “San Diego wanted me and it’s nice to feel wanted. I loved the coaching staff. The receivers’ coach, Jerome Pathon, was a second-round pick of the Colts and played eight seasons in the NFL and he’s a great guy and I want to learn a lot from him, someone who knows what it takes to get to the next level. I want him to take me to the top of my game and my capabilities.”
Smith plans to major in business at San Diego.
Vista football coach Chris Jones thinks it’s a great deal for San Diego and for Smith.
“I think it’s a steal for San Diego because they’re getting a heck of a football player,” Jones said. “For Logan, it’s a great spot for him that fits him well. His brother, Kalib, goes to San Diego State so he’s got him down there. More than anything, it’s a place where Logan can come in right away and play and active role on their offense. Education-wise, a degree from San Diego is similar to the Ivy League and I know Logan feels strongly about getting a good education so it’s just a great fit for him.”